New Testament
Luke 20:42
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus references a Psalm written by David, where David speaks of a conversation between God and the Messiah.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
David himself says in the book of Psalms: 'The LORD said to my Lord, "Sit at my right hand,
And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand,
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus references a Psalm written by David, where David speaks of a conversation between God and the Messiah. The phrase 'Sit at my right hand' signifies a position of honor and authority. By quoting this, Jesus emphasizes His divine status and authority as the Messiah, showing that even David recognized Him as Lord. This challenges the religious leaders of the time, who questioned Jesus' identity and authority. The verse highlights the relationship between God the Father and Jesus, affirming Jesus' role in the divine plan. It also serves as a reminder of the prophetic nature of the Psalms, revealing deeper truths about the coming Messiah and His reign. This connection between the Old and New Testaments illustrates the continuity of God's message throughout Scripture, affirming Jesus' legitimacy as the awaited Savior.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 20:42 to your life
This verse encourages believers to recognize Jesus' authority in their lives. By understanding His position as Lord, we can submit to His guidance and trust in His plans. It reminds us to seek a deeper relationship with Him, acknowledging His rightful place in our hearts and decisions.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 20:42 mean?
Luke 20:42 refers to a Psalm where David speaks of a conversation with God about the Messiah. It highlights Jesus' divine authority and His recognition as Lord by David, emphasizing His role in God's plan.
What is the significance of 'Sit at my right hand' in Luke 20:42?
The phrase 'Sit at my right hand' signifies a position of honor and authority. It indicates Jesus' exalted status and His rightful place in the divine hierarchy, affirming His role as the Messiah.
How does Luke 20:42 connect the Old and New Testaments?
Luke 20:42 connects the Old and New Testaments by showing that David recognized the Messiah, which Jesus claims to be. This continuity illustrates God's consistent message throughout Scripture regarding the coming Savior.
What themes are present in Luke 20:42?
Key themes in Luke 20:42 include Messiahship, divine authority, scriptural prophecy, David's recognition of Jesus, and God's sovereignty. These themes highlight the significance of Jesus' identity and His fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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